Bangkok: Preparations are underway to bring Thai workers back to the country, with a focus on upskilling and reskilling. Treenuch revealed that she is coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to bring Thai workers back to Thailand. She is also coordinating with relatives in Thailand to communicate updates and preparing to upskill and reskill the workers, as well as compiling a list of potential job placements to support them upon their return.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Treenuch Thianthong, Minister of Labour, stated in an interview regarding Thai workers in the Middle East that the Ministry of Labour, labour attach©s in each area, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are coordinating to monitor the situation constantly. A list of those wishing to return to Thailand and guidelines for providing care and assistance to Thai citizens are already in place.
Furthermore, instructions were given to the executives of government agencies under the Ministry of Labour at the provincial level to care for and coordinate with the relatives of workers employed in high-risk areas, both in terms of communicating updates and taking steps if they wish for their return.
Regarding the readiness for additional Thai workers wishing to return to Thailand, Ms. Treenuch confirmed that coordination has been made with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that preparations are underway to bring back Thai workers who wish to travel. The Prime Minister also prioritizes the return of all Thai citizens. The first group to be evacuated is a group of 41 people from Iran. Overall, according to the Ministry of Labour, approximately 1,000 workers in the region may be indirectly affected, as they come from various countries. However, this figure does not include other Thai citizens who wish to return. A more definitive figure will need to be confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Regarding the shrinking labor market in the Middle East, and whether coordination with other countries is needed to find additional labor markets for Thai people, Ms. Treenuch stated that the situation requires constant assessment. Upon their return, those who wish to continue working can receive upskilling and reskilling support if they wish to develop their abilities. This is something prepared to support, and a list of names has been compiled to match them with jobs. Preparations are currently underway for this continuation of employment.